Killzone 2

Killzone 2 is a hardcore first person shooter developed by Guerilla Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for Playstation 3.

The game takes place during the ISA invasion of the planet Helghan and presumably follows on from Killzone and Killzone: Liberation. I say presumably because I’ve played neither so I can’t really comment.

Describing Killzone 2 in terms of graphics and atmosphere I’d have to say it’s pretty damn good. From storm wracked, ashen cities to windswept, desolate deserts you’re presented with an ominous environment populated with tough, ruthless soldiers. I was particularly impressed with the flame\fire effects and the electricity effects; both are fairly prevalent within the game. The dark atmosphere of the game is backed with an excellent musical composition which meshes perfectly with the game play delivering an air of intensity, urgency and desperation.

Game play is also very good although at times difficult. Right from the get go you’re thrown into the rough turmoil of war. This is, however, where my first gripe appeared;  a lack of objective markers. A lot of games use objective markers for the obvious reason of helping to guide the player towards the objective. Killzone 2 doesn’t and thusly sometimes it can be difficult to figure out what you’re supposed to be doing.

You won’t be confused for too long though, after all most first person shooters are fairly linear. While you’re finding your way to the objective you’ll be caught up in some pretty intense firefights. Helghast soldiers are no pushovers. They’re well armed and pretty tough. You’ll encounter different varieties of soldiers as you move through different levels and each variety is armed differently. Despite these varieties they all have common features so it never looks out of place.

The range of weapons is pretty nice. The majority are what I’d call solid shot weapons by which I mean they fire bullets instead of lasers. Exceptions are the flame thrower and a sort of electro cannon which are both fun. Do you like your enemies fired or char grilled?

There are two levels in the game that are incredibly difficult. I don’t want to go into too much detail and end up spoiling the game but I will say this; no matter how hard it looks and how impossible it feels just persevere and eventually you’ll get it. I didn’t call it a hardcore game for nothing.

The storyline throughout the game is interesting and engaging; you’ll want to keep playing more. For trophy hunters you’ll be pleased to known that each finished mission awards you a trophy and there is a bunch of other trophies available for various things.

This a great first person shooter that will challenge you and keep you entertained.